Facing a plague of mealybugs on your succulents? Try these 7 methods
During the hot summer season, succulents are most susceptible to mealybug infestations. These tiny white insects not only suck the sap from the plants but also secrete honeydew that can trigger sooty mold. This article systematically compiles 7 scientific pest control solutions, combining physical removal and chemical elimination to help you achieve a pest-free environment in 3 days.
One, Physical Removal Methods
Manual Removal Method
Recommended when the number of insects is less than 20. Perform the operation when the dew is still on the plants in the early morning, as the insects are less firmly attached at this time. Use sterilized ophthalmic forceps to grip the base of the insect and pull it out smoothly, taking care not to damage the wax layer. Change tools after treating every 5 plants to prevent cross-contamination.
High-pressure Washing Method
Use a 0.3MPa pressure spray bottle, maintaining a spray distance of 30cm. Focus on washing hidden areas such as leaf axils and growth points. After rinsing, invert the plant to control water flow and use a fan to accelerate drying. It is recommended to perform the operation for 3 consecutive days, with an 8-hour interval between each session.
Two, Home Recipe Applications
Vinegar Dissolution Method
Select brewing rice vinegar with an acidity of ≥5% and dilute it at a ratio of 1:800. Soak a cotton pad in the solution and wrap it around the insects. After 15 minutes, the insect's wax shell can be seen dissolving. This method can achieve a mortality rate of up to 92% for newly hatched nymphs, but is less effective on adult insects.
Alcohol Penetration Method
Use 75% medical alcohol with an ultra-fine fiber brush and apply in a dot painting manner. Focus on painting the stomatal areas on the back of the insect. If the treated area exceeds 30% of the leaf, the operation should be done in multiple sessions. Avoid sunlight for 6 hours after application and use no more than twice a week.
Biological Fumigation Method
Improve the traditional smoking scheme: use electronic mosquito repellent liquid and a sealed turnover box, controlling the temperature between 28-32°C. Place 2 pieces of 0.03% chlorfluoroc菊酯 tablets per cubic meter of space and seal for 4 hours before ventilating. This method increases the mortality rate of insect eggs to 78%.